Ultraviolet disinfection device and method of controlling the same

Abstract

The present disclosure provides an ultraviolet (UV) sterilization device having improved heat dissipation performance and capable of changing position. The UV sterilization device includes a sterilization unit configured to be movable to a predetermined position and including a UV emitter, a driving unit configured to move the sterilization unit, and a cover having a structure to accommodate the sterilization unit and allowing an inner side of the cover to communicate with an outer side. A heat sink is provided in the cover so as to dissipate heat from the sterilization unit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection device, and more particularly, to a UV disinfection device having improved heat dissipation performance and capable of changing position. BACKGROUND

[0002] Ultraviolet (UV) light is used for a disinfection device because UV light can promote chemical reactions, oxidize organic matter, and kill microorganisms.

[0003] UV light includes UV-C light having a wavelength in the range of 200 nanometers to 280 nanometers (nm), UV-B light having a wavelength in the range of 280 nm to 315 nm, and UV-A light having a wavelength in the range of 315 nm to 400 nm. It is well known that when UV-C light having a disinfection function is radiated onto deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), it damages the DNA and inhibits its regeneration and replication, thereby killing viruses. Since there have been recent reports that UV-C light is effective against coronaviruses, UV-C light-emitting diode (LED) products for killing coronaviruses have been developed.

[0004] Due to this trend, attempts are being made to apply UV disinfection devices to vehicles in order to disinfect the passenger compartment of the vehicle, which is a closed space.

[0005] The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancing the understanding of the background of the present disclosure, and therefore, it can contain information that does not constitute the prior art that is already known in this field to those skilled workers in this field. SUMMARY

[0006] The present disclosure aims to solve the above-mentioned problems associated with the related art, and the object of the present disclosure is to provide a UV disinfection device having improved disinfection performance and reliability.

[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a UV disinfection device having excellent heat dissipation performance.

[0008] However, the objects to be achieved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned objects, and other objects not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0009] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection device including a disinfection unit configured to be movable to a predetermined position. The UV disinfection device includes a UV emitter, a driving unit configured to move the disinfection unit, and a cover having a structure to accommodate the disinfection unit and allowing the inside of the cover to communicate with the outside. A heat sink is provided in the cover so as to dissipate heat from the disinfection unit.

[0010] In another aspect, this disclosure provides a method for controlling a UV disinfection device. The method includes: sensing the temperature in an enclosed space where the disinfection unit is located; when the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, driving a motor to move the disinfection unit out of an enclosed structure located in the enclosed space, wherein the motor is configured to move the disinfection unit into or out of the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space; and when the temperature becomes equal to or below the threshold temperature, driving the motor to move the disinfection unit back into the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space.

[0011] Other aspects and embodiments of this disclosure are discussed below.

[0012] The above and other features of this disclosure are discussed below. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The above and other features of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to certain embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are given by way of illustration only and therefore do not limit the scope of this disclosure. In the accompanying drawings:

[0014] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example of the installation of a UV disinfection apparatus according to this disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 3A The UV disinfection device according to this disclosure is shown installed in the overhead console of a vehicle;

[0016] Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A The position of the UV disinfection device shown has changed.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the UV disinfection device according to this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A bottom view;

[0019] Figure 6 A disinfection unit of a UV disinfection apparatus according to the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken by line A-A' in the diagram;

[0021] Figure 8A yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of the image;

[0022] Figure 8B yes Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of the view;

[0023] Figure 9An example of the installation of a UV disinfection apparatus according to this disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 10A When the disinfection unit according to this disclosure is located in the top control console, along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken by line B-B' in the diagram;

[0025] Figure 10B When the disinfection unit according to this disclosure is located in the top control console, along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken by line C-C' in the diagram;

[0026] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the disinfection unit according to this disclosure when it is located in a top-mounted control console;

[0027] Figure 12A When the disinfection unit according to this disclosure descends from the top control console along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken by line B-B' in the diagram;

[0028] Figure 12B When the disinfection unit according to this disclosure descends from the top control console along Figure 9 A cross-sectional view taken by line C-C' in the diagram;

[0029] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the disinfection unit descending from the top control console according to this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 14 The operation of releasing elements is shown during the process of the sterilization unit according to this disclosure descending from its initial position (position in the top console) and returning to its initial position;

[0031] Figure 15A This shows the appearance of the sterilization unit when it is located in the top-mounted console;

[0032] Figure 15B It shows in Figure 15A Configuration of the disinfection unit under the specified conditions;

[0033] Figure 15C It is along Figure 15A A cross-sectional view taken by line D-D' in the diagram;

[0034] Figure 16A This shows the appearance of the sterilization unit when it is lowered from the top console;

[0035] Figure 16B It shows in Figure 16A Configuration of the disinfection unit under the specified conditions;

[0036] Figure 16C It is along Figure 16A A cross-sectional view taken from line E-E' in the diagram;

[0037] Figure 17 It is along Figure 6 A cross-sectional view taken by line A-A' in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 18 The configuration of the control system of the UV disinfection apparatus according to this disclosure is shown;

[0039] Figure 19 This is a control flow chart of the UV disinfection device under high temperature conditions according to the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 20A The operation standby state of the disinfection unit according to this disclosure in the top-mounted control console is shown;

[0041] Figure 20B The state of the disinfection unit according to this disclosure descending from the top control console is shown;

[0042] Figure 21 This is a control flow diagram of the UV disinfection device according to this disclosure when responding to a user request;

[0043] Figure 22A This is a front view of the UV sterilization apparatus according to this disclosure when the lengths of the first and second lines are set to their minimum lengths; and

[0044] Figure 22B This is a front view of the UV disinfection apparatus according to this disclosure when the lengths of the first and second lines are adjusted to their maximum lengths.

[0045] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale and present slightly simplified representations of several features illustrating the basic principles of this disclosure. Specific design features of this disclosure (including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and shapes) will be determined in part by the specific intended application and environment of use.

[0046] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals throughout the multiple figures refer to the same or equivalent portions of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] In the following detailed description, embodiments of the present disclosure are given with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specific structures or functions described in the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are for illustrative purposes only. Embodiments according to the concept of the present disclosure may be implemented in various forms, and it should be understood that they should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein, but rather include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions covered by the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0048] It should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the teachings of this disclosure, the first element discussed below may be referred to as the second element. Similarly, the second element may also be referred to as the first element.

[0049] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected" or "attached" to another element, the element may be directly connected to or attached to the other element, or there may be intermediate elements between these elements. Conversely, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly attached to" another element, there are no intermediate elements. Other expressions describing relationships between elements, such as "between," "directly between," "adjacent," or "directly adjacent," should be interpreted in the same manner.

[0050] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same parts. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. It should also be understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” etc., specify the presence of the stated parts, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other parts, steps, operations, and / or elements thereof.

[0051] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a UV disinfection device for disinfecting enclosed vehicle interior spaces, particularly the passenger compartment of a vehicle.

[0052] Regarding UV-C LEDs, as the distance from the emission source to the target to be disinfected increases, or depending on the emission angle, the light intensity decreases, and the disinfection performance also decreases. Therefore, the longer the distance between the UV-C LED and the target to be disinfected, the longer the emission time.

[0053] Furthermore, UV-C LEDs are less efficient and more prone to failure in high-temperature environments. When UV-C LEDs operate in high-temperature environments, such as when a vehicle is parked in direct sunlight, the LED's effectiveness may decrease, or it may be damaged due to the high temperature.

[0054] Typically, bacteria thrive in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, particularly on the steering wheel, door handles, seatbelts, cupholders, gear selector, and center console. Therefore, disinfection devices are necessary to disinfect these areas throughout the passenger compartment.

[0055] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a UV disinfection device and a method for controlling it, which can prevent the decrease in disinfection performance due to the increase in distance to the target to be disinfected, and can prevent the performance of the disinfection device from deteriorating in high-temperature environments.

[0056] Furthermore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a UV sterilization device and a method for controlling it, which enables the heat generated during the operation of the UV sterilization device or the heat of a high-temperature environment to be effectively dissipated.

[0057] This disclosure is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure can be used in any vehicle interior space that requires disinfection. Specifically, the UV disinfection device according to this disclosure can achieve disinfection more effectively when used in a limited vehicle interior space (e.g., the passenger compartment of a vehicle).

[0059] The UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure can be installed at any location in the vehicle V. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figure 2 As shown, the UV disinfection device 1 can be installed on the upper side of the passenger compartment of the vehicle V, for example, on the roof, headliner, or overhead console OC of the vehicle V. The following describes the case where the UV disinfection device 1 is installed in the overhead console OC by way of example. However, the UV disinfection device 1 is not necessarily installed in the overhead console OC, and can be installed in any position, as long as the device 1 can move vertically.

[0060] like Figure 3A and 3B As shown, the UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure is configured to be movable. The UV disinfection device 1 is configured to rise and fall while mounted in a top-mounted control console OC. Specifically, the UV disinfection device 1 is configured to move vertically to meet temperature conditions and / or improve disinfection performance. This will be described below.

[0061] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the UV disinfection device 1 includes a motor 10, a pulley 20, and a disinfection unit 30 for rising and falling. The motor 10 and the pulley 20 are fixed, and the disinfection unit 30 is configured to move up and down by the operation of the motor 10 and the pulley 20.

[0062] The motor 10 and pulley 20 are fixed in the top-mounted control console OC, and the motor 10 provides driving force to the pulley 20. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the pulley 20 includes a first pulley 22 and a second pulley 24.

[0063] The pulley 20 can be fixed to the top control console OC via a fixed panel 40. The fixed panel 40 is connected to the top control console OC via a support pin 50. Each of the first pulley 22 and the second pulley 24 is rotatably mounted to the fixed panel 40 via a pulley pin 26. Furthermore, the pulley 20 is configured such that when the first pulley 22 rotates, the second pulley 24 also rotates with it. More specifically, when the motor 10 provides rotational force to the first pulley 22, the second pulley 24, which engages with the first pulley 22, also rotates with the first pulley.

[0064] A first wire 60 is wound around a first pulley 22. When the motor 10 rotates in a first direction to rotate the first pulley 22, the first wire 60 wound around the first pulley 22 can be unwound from the first pulley. Similarly, a second wire 70 is wound around a second pulley 24. When the second pulley 24 rotates in association with the first pulley 22, the second wire 70 wound around the second pulley 24 can be unwound from the second pulley. The first wire 60 can be one of an anode wire and a cathode wire, and the second wire 70 can be the other of an anode wire and a cathode wire.

[0065] Furthermore, when the motor 10 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction to rotate the first pulley 22, the unwound first thread 60 can be wound back onto the first pulley 22. Similarly, when the second pulley 24 rotates in association with the first pulley 22, the unwound second thread 70 can be wound back onto the second pulley 24.

[0066] The first wire 60 and the second wire 70 are connected to the disinfection unit 30 to supply power to the disinfection unit 30. Through the operation of the motor 10 and the first pulley 22 and the second pulley 24, the first wire 60 and the second wire 70 are unwound from or wrapped around the first pulley 22 and the second pulley 24, respectively, thereby changing the position of the disinfection unit 30 relative to the top control console OC.

[0067] The disinfection unit 30 includes a UV emitter 302 configured to generate UV rays to perform disinfection. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the UV emitter 302 is a light-emitting diode (LED) configured to generate UV radiation (e.g., UV-C radiation).

[0068] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The disinfection unit 30 includes an inner cover 304. The inner cover 304 is arranged to face the pulley 20. Specifically, a first line 60 and a second line 70 can be connected to the inner cover 304. Therefore, the disinfection unit 30 can rise or fall due to changes in the lengths of the first line 60 and the second line 70. The inner cover 304 can be made of aluminum, a material with excellent heat dissipation properties, but the embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0069] refer toFigure 8A and 8B According to embodiments of this disclosure, the mounting panel 40 may be fitted with at least two wire retaining rings 42. One of the wire retaining rings 42 is used to guide a first wire 60 extending from the first pulley 22. Similarly, the other wire retaining ring 42 guides a second wire 70 extending from the second pulley 24.

[0070] Refer again Figure 7 The inner cover 304 is connected to the outer cover 306, and a space 308 is formed between the inner cover 304 and the outer cover 306. The outer cover 306 accommodates the components of the disinfection unit 30, and an opening 1306 is formed in the bottom or center of the lower surface of the outer cover 306. Light generated by the UV emitter 302 housed in the outer cover 306 is emitted to the outside of the disinfection unit 30 through the opening 1306.

[0071] A printed circuit board 312, including a radiator 310 for heat dissipation, is disposed in space 308. The printed circuit board 312 is configured to receive instructions from a controller 80 (e.g., a vehicle control unit) and control the operation of a UV emitter 302 disposed below the printed circuit board 312.

[0072] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the inner cover 304 is configured to provide additional heat dissipation performance. To this end, according to the present disclosure, the inner cover 304 is formed to allow communication between the space 308 and the outside. Specifically, when the inner cover 304 is lowered from the top console OC, communication between the space 308 and the outside is achieved. Furthermore, the heat dissipation structure according to the present disclosure ensures airflow channels and increases the heat dissipation area, thereby maximizing heat dissipation performance. Therefore, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, such as... Figure 9 to Figure 13 As shown, the inner cover 304 includes a frame 314, a release element 324, and a rotating element 334.

[0073] Frame 314 forms the frame structure of inner cover 304 and is fixed to outer cover 306. Frame 314 includes a plurality of mating portions 1314. These mating portions 1314 are formed on both sides of frame 314 and are recessed from the respective sides of frame 314 toward the centerline of frame 314. The mating portions 1314 formed on one side of frame 314 and the mating portions 1314 formed on the other side of frame 314 face each other. The mating portions 1314 formed on each of the two sides of frame 314 are spaced apart from each other at regular intervals.

[0074] Furthermore, the frame 314 includes a plurality of chambers 2314. Each chamber 2314 forms an empty space with a predetermined volume within the frame 314. The chambers 2314 are formed in the intervals between the mating portions 1314 and are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the mating portions 1314 and spaced apart from each other. Specifically, these chambers 2314 are formed in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the mating portions 1314 are arranged, and are spaced apart from each other by walls 3314 formed between adjacent chambers of the plurality of chambers 2314 and extending in the direction in which the mating portions 1314 are arranged.

[0075] Release element 324 is coupled to frame 314. Specifically, release element 324 is rotatably received in mating portion 1314. According to an embodiment of this disclosure, outer cover 306 includes a plurality of cutout portions 2306 configured to overlap with mating portion 1314 of frame 314. Release element 324 is coupled to mating portion 1314 and extends into cutout portion 2306.

[0076] The release element 324 is received in the mating portion 1314 and the cutout portion 2306 by an external force applied to the frame 314. When the external force applied to the frame 314 is removed, the release element 324 unfolds such that the portion of it received in the cutout portion 2306 rotates outward about the portion of it received in the mating portion 1314. For this purpose, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mating portion 1314 and the release element 324 may be equipped with a torsion spring. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and any component other than a torsion spring can be used, as long as it can rotate the release element 324 outward. Furthermore, the external force applied to the frame 314 is provided by a fixing element 4 provided at the top control console OC. In addition, the release element 324 is arranged along the direction in which the mating portion 1314 is arranged and is coupled to a shaft 1324 passing through the mating portion 1314 to rotate with the shaft.

[0077] A rotating element 334 is disposed in the corresponding chamber 2314. The rotating element 334 is rotatably disposed in the corresponding chamber 2314. In its normal state, the rotating element 334 closes the chamber 2314. In its rotated state, the rotating element 334 connects the space 308 and the chamber 2314 to the outside of the sterilization unit 30.

[0078] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the rotating element 334 can be rotated via a rotating shaft 344. The rotating shaft 344 passes through the frame 314 in a direction parallel to the direction of the arrangement of the mating portions 1314, and through the chambers 2314 arranged in the direction of the arrangement of the mating portions 1314. Specifically, each of the plurality of rotating shafts 344 passes through a corresponding row of chambers 2314 continuously arranged in the direction of the arrangement of the mating portions 1314. Thus, these rotating shafts 344 are configured to be spaced apart from each other at regular intervals between the mating portions 1314 formed on both sides of the frame 314.

[0079] like Figure 14 As shown, when the release element 324 rotates, the rotation shaft 344 rotates together with the release element 324. Therefore, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, a rolling gear 354 is provided on the rotation shaft 344. The rolling gear 354 is mounted to the corresponding rotation shaft 344, and the rotation shaft 344 rotates due to the rotation of the rolling gear 354. Furthermore, the rolling gear 354 may be disposed within the frame 314. When the release element 324 rotates, the rolling gear 354 disposed near the release element 324 receives the rotational force and transmits the rotational force to another rolling gear 354 disposed near it. The rotational force is sequentially transmitted to the rolling gears 354 arranged adjacent to each other, and the release element 324 disposed on the opposite side also unfolds horizontally due to the rotational force. Therefore, the rotation element 334 opens the corresponding chamber 2314. Due to the torsion spring, the release element 324 always extends from the vertical direction to the horizontal direction, or rotates outward from the mating part 1314, and is then reinstalled into the mating part 1314 by an external force applied toward the centerline of the frame 314 or by the fixing element 4.

[0080] More specifically, the release element 324 may include a gear 2324 that rotates about the shaft 1324. When the external force applied to the release element 324 is removed, the gear 2324 rotates about the shaft 1324, thus the release element 324, housed in the mating portion 1314 and the cutout portion 2306, begins to extend outward. Simultaneously, the release element 324 is fully extended from the mating portion 1314 and the cutout portion 2306 by a torsion spring. During this process, the rolling gear 354 adjacent to the release element 324 rotates due to the rotation of the release element 324, and other rolling gears 354 arranged adjacent to this rolling gear rotate in sequence. Finally, the release element 324 arranged on the opposite side is also extended by the rotation of the rolling gear 354 arranged adjacent to it. The release element 324, extended from the frame 314, is repositioned back into the mating portion 1314 by an external force applied toward the centerline of the frame 314 or by contact with the fixing element 4. The release element 324 rotates in the opposite direction to its unfolding direction, and the rolling gear 354 arranged adjacent to the release element rotates in sequence. Finally, the rotational force is transmitted to the release element 324 located on the opposite side, causing the corresponding release element 324 to re-enter the mating portion 1314. Gears 2324 may be provided on both sides of the frame 314. However, it is sufficient for only one of the release elements 324 arranged opposite each other relative to the centerline of the sterilization unit 30 to include a gear 2324.

[0081] The operation of the inner cover 304, used to improve heat dissipation performance, is now described. Figure 15A The appearance of the disinfection unit 30 is shown when it is located in the top-mounted console OC. Figure 15B It shows in Figure 15A The configuration of the disinfection unit 30 in the state of [condition]. Figure 15C It is along Figure 15A The cross-sectional view taken by line D-D' in the diagram. When the sterilization unit 30 is located in the top control console OC, the release element 324 is housed within the mating portion 1314 and the cut portion 2306. (As shown...) Figure 15C As shown, the release element 324 is held in a state within the mating portion 1314 and the cutout portion 2306 by the fixing element 4 formed at the top control console OC. The torsion spring is in a compressed state.

[0082] Figure 16A The appearance of the disinfection unit 30 is shown when it is lowered from the top console OC. Figure 16B It shows in Figure 16A The configuration of the disinfection unit 30 in the state of [condition]. Figure 16C It is along Figure 16AThe cross-sectional view is taken along line E-E'. When the disinfection unit 30 descends from the top control console OC, the pushing operation of the release fixing element 4 causes the release element 324 to unfold and be held in the unfolded state by the torsion spring. When the disinfection unit 30 descends from the top control console OC, the torsion spring compressed in the top control console OC returns to its initial state, and the restored torsion spring holds the release element 324 in the unfolded state. When the disinfection unit 30 returns to its initial position, that is, when it moves into the top control console OC, the release element 324 is inserted into the top control console OC through a process reversed from the above process, and then installed into the mating portion 1314 and the cut-out portion 2306 by the fixing element 4. As described below, according to this disclosure, when the disinfection unit 30 is in a high-temperature environment or is performing disinfection, heat dissipation can be effectively achieved through the above structure.

[0083] like Figure 17 As shown, in the case where the inner cover 304 is formed as a general plate (see reference). Figure 6 As indicated by the arrow, heat is trapped in the sealed space 308 and cannot be dissipated smoothly, thus reducing heat dissipation performance. However, the structure of the inner cover 304 according to this disclosure provides excellent heat dissipation performance. In other words, when the sterilization unit 30 descends from the top control console OC, the release element 324 unfolds in the horizontal direction, so the heat in the space 308 flows horizontally (by...). Figure 12A (Indicated by the dashed arrow pointing left and right). Furthermore, as the release element 324 unfolds horizontally, it connects to a frame 314 made of aluminum, thereby increasing the heat dissipation area. Meanwhile, as... Figure 12B As indicated by the arrow, the rotating element 334 rotates in the vertical direction, and thus the heat in the space 308 can be dissipated in the vertical direction through the chamber 2314. In addition, as the rotating element 334 rotates, it comes into contact with the heat sink 310, thereby increasing the height of the heat sink 310 and increasing the heat dissipation area.

[0084] like Figure 18 As shown, the UV disinfection apparatus according to this disclosure also includes a controller 80. The controller 80 is configured to move the position of the disinfection unit 30 in response to input conditions. Input conditions include the temperature inside the vehicle's passenger compartment and / or requests from vehicle occupants. The controller 80 is configured to drive the motor 10 to move the position of the disinfection unit 30. Furthermore, the controller 80 is configured to communicate with a temperature sensor 90, which is configured to measure the temperature inside the vehicle's passenger compartment. The operation of the controller 80 will be described below.

[0085] The UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure operates automatically as follows. The UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure can be configured to move automatically to prevent its performance from deteriorating in high-temperature environments (i.e., when the temperature inside the passenger compartment of a vehicle exceeds a predetermined level).

[0086] refer to Figure 19 The controller 80 determines whether the vehicle's journey has ended (steps S10 and S12). For example, the controller 80 can sense whether the vehicle's journey has ended through communication with the vehicle control unit. When the vehicle journey ends, the disinfection unit 30 is inserted into the overhead console OC. After the occupants disembark, the disinfection unit 30 enters an operational standby state.

[0087] After confirming that the vehicle's journey has ended, the controller 80 determines whether there are any occupants in the vehicle (step S14). If it is determined that there are no occupants in the vehicle, such as... Figure 20A As shown, the disinfection unit 30 enters the operation standby state (step S16), at which time the disinfection unit 30 is located in the top control console OC.

[0088] When the disinfection unit 30 is in standby mode, the controller 80 receives real-time temperature information about the vehicle's passenger compartment from the temperature sensor 90. For example, when the outdoor temperature is high and the vehicle is parked outdoors, the temperature inside the vehicle rises, and the temperature of the disinfection unit 30, located in the enclosed space, also rises. Therefore, when (in step S18) it is determined based on the temperature information received from the temperature sensor 90 that the temperature inside the vehicle's passenger compartment exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature (e.g., 30 degrees Celsius), the controller 80 controls the motor 10 to be driven. (In step S20) the controller 80 drives the motor 10 in a first direction, causing the disinfection unit 30 to descend. The first pulley 22 and the second pulley 24 rotate due to the operation of the motor 10, causing the disinfection unit 30 to descend (step S22). The disinfection unit 30 descends and is located outside the overhead control console OC, as... Figure 20B As shown.

[0089] While the disinfection unit 30 is moving downwards, the controller 80 continuously receives information about the temperature inside the vehicle's passenger compartment from the temperature sensor 90 and determines whether the temperature inside the passenger compartment is lower than or equal to a threshold temperature (step S24). When it is determined that the temperature inside the vehicle's passenger compartment is lower than or equal to 30 degrees Celsius (which is the threshold temperature), the controller 80 drives the motor 10 again, causing the disinfection unit 30 to rise to its initial position. In other words, the controller 80 drives the motor 10 in a second direction opposite to the first direction (step S26), thereby raising the disinfection unit 30 to its initial position. Figure 20AThe position shown is (step S28). The function of this disclosure is to prevent the disinfection unit 30 from heating up in a confined space due to its location in the top-mounted control console OC under high temperature conditions, and to remove heat from the disinfection unit by moving the disinfection unit 30 downwards. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the disinfection performance of the disinfection unit 30 from deteriorating due to high temperature and to improve its durability.

[0090] When the UV sterilization device 1 is in a high-temperature environment, as the sterilization unit 30 descends, as described above, the release element 324 unfolds and the rotating element 334 rotates, thereby promoting the circulation of air into the space 308. Therefore, the UV sterilization device 1 according to this disclosure can have maximized heat dissipation performance.

[0091] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when disinfection is performed in response to a request from an occupant, the UV disinfection device 1 can be moved. The controller 80 is configured to enter disinfection mode in response to a request from an occupant.

[0092] like Figure 21 As shown, requests from occupants are transmitted to controller 80 via an interface (such as the vehicle's audio-video-navigation (AVN) system or a smart device configured to communicate with the vehicle) (step S100). Requests from occupants can request any of a variety of modes. For example, the requested disinfection mode can include at least a wide-area disinfection mode, a strong disinfection mode, and an intermediate disinfection mode. Controller 80 can drive motor 10 according to each mode to adjust the descent length of the first line 60 and the second line 70.

[0093] Upon receiving a disinfection request from an occupant, the controller 80 determines whether there is an occupant in the vehicle (step S102). After determining that there is no occupant in the vehicle, the disinfection unit 30 enters a movable operation standby state (step S104).

[0094] Depending on the mode, the descent distance of the disinfection unit 30 can be set by adjusting the length of the first line 60 and the second line 70 extended from the top control console OC. For example... Figure 22A and Figure 22B As shown, according to the requested disinfection mode, the controller 80 has a minimum length L of the first line 60 and the second line 70. 最小 (like Figure 22A (as shown) and maximum length L 最大 (like Figure 22B The controller 80 controls the extraction length of the first line 60 and the second line 70 between the two lines to achieve disinfection suitable for the requested disinfection mode. In other words, the controller 80 can drive the motor 10 to a rotational degree set according to the requested mode in the first direction (step S106), thereby causing the disinfection unit 30 to descend a predetermined distance (step S108).

[0095] For example, when occupants request extensive disinfection, the disinfection unit 30 descends a relatively short distance from the overhead control console OC. Figure 22A On the other hand, when occupants request intensive disinfection, the disinfection unit 30 descends from the top control console OC a predetermined maximum distance. Figure 22B Furthermore, when an occupant requests intermediate disinfection, the disinfection unit 30 descends to a suitable distance. The disinfection performance of the disinfection device depends on the distance to the target to be disinfected. According to this disclosure, good disinfection performance can be ensured by moving the UV disinfection device 1 closer to the target to be disinfected. Moreover, this disclosure provides both wide-range disinfection and powerful disinfection functions in response to user selection, thereby offering versatility and convenience in disinfection.

[0096] After the disinfection unit 30 descends and performs disinfection for a predetermined time, the controller 80 drives the motor 10 in the second direction (step S110). As a result, the disinfection unit 30 rises and is inserted into the top control console OC to return to its initial position (step S112).

[0097] When the disinfection unit 30 descends, and the UV disinfection device 1 performs disinfection, as described above, the release element 324 unfolds and the rotating element 334 rotates, thereby promoting the circulation of air into the space 308. Therefore, the UV disinfection device 1 according to this disclosure can have maximized heat dissipation performance.

[0098] According to this disclosure, the disinfection unit 30 is configured to be movable to adjust the distance between the disinfection unit and the target to be disinfected, thereby improving disinfection performance.

[0099] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, when the UV disinfection device 1 is in a high-temperature environment, the disinfection unit 30 is moved out of the top control console OC to be cooled.

[0100] Furthermore, according to this disclosure, when the disinfection unit 30 is in a high-temperature environment or when performing disinfection that generates a large amount of heat, the disinfection unit 30 descends from the top control console OC, thereby promoting the circulation of air into the disinfection unit 30 and maximizing heat dissipation performance.

[0101] As is evident from the above description, this disclosure provides a UV disinfection device with improved disinfection performance and reliability.

[0102] In addition, this disclosure provides a UV sterilization device with excellent heat dissipation performance.

[0103] However, the effects achievable through this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art should clearly understand from the above description other effects not mentioned herein.

[0104] This disclosure has been described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof. However, those skilled in the art will understand that changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this disclosure, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An ultraviolet disinfection device, comprising: A disinfection unit is configured to move to a predetermined location, and the disinfection unit includes an ultraviolet emitter. A drive unit is configured to move the disinfection unit; as well as The lid has a structure that accommodates the disinfection unit and allows communication between the inside and outside of the lid. A radiator is provided inside the cover to dissipate heat from the disinfection unit. The cover includes: frame; Multiple mating parts are arranged on each of the two sides of the frame and spaced apart from each other at regular intervals, the multiple mating parts enabling communication between the inner and outer sides of the cover; and Multiple release elements are configured to be received in the multiple mating portions by external force. When the external force is removed, the plurality of release elements rotate and unfold from the plurality of mating parts, so that the inside and outside of the cover are connected.

2. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 1, wherein, The framework includes: Multiple chambers are arranged in intervals between multiple mating portions spaced apart at regular intervals, the multiple chambers allowing communication between the inner and outer sides of the cover; and Multiple rotating elements are inserted into the multiple chambers to be able to rotate within the multiple chambers.

3. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 2, wherein, The plurality of rotating elements are configured to rotate by the rotation of the plurality of releasing elements.

4. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 3, wherein, The plurality of rotating elements are connected to rolling gears, which are configured to receive the rotational force of the plurality of release elements via a rotating shaft passing through the plurality of rotating elements. The rolling gear engages with the plurality of release elements to rotate together with the plurality of release elements.

5. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 4, wherein, When the plurality of release elements rotate and unfold, the plurality of rotating elements rotate to make the inside and outside of the cover communicate.

6. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 1, wherein, The ultraviolet disinfection device is housed in a rooftop console of the vehicle, and the external force is provided by a fixing element disposed in the rooftop console.

7. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 2 further includes: A printed circuit board, housed within the cover, is configured to control the operation of the ultraviolet emitter. The ultraviolet emitter is connected to the printed circuit board, and the heat sink is connected to the printed circuit board.

8. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 7, wherein, The frame is mounted on the radiator, and an empty space is formed between the radiator and the frame.

9. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 8, wherein, The plurality of rotating elements are configured to contact the heat sink as they rotate.

10. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 1, wherein, The driving unit includes: The motor is configured to provide rotational force; and The pulley is configured to rotate via the motor, and The wire connected to the disinfection unit is wound around the pulley or unwound from the pulley.

11. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 10, wherein, The pulley includes: The first pulley is configured to directly receive rotational force from the motor; and The second pulley engages with the first pulley and rotates together with the first pulley. A first thread is wound on the first pulley, and a second thread is wound on the second pulley.

12. The ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 10, further comprising: A line retaining ring is configured to guide the line as it unwinds from the pulley.

13. A method for controlling the ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 1, the method comprising: The temperature of the enclosed space where the disinfection unit is located is sensed; When the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature, the drive motor is used to move the disinfection unit out of the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space, wherein the motor is configured to move the disinfection unit into or out of the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space. as well as When the temperature becomes equal to or lower than the threshold temperature, the motor is driven to move the disinfection unit back into the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, When the disinfection unit is moved out of the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space, the motor is driven in the first direction, and When the disinfection unit is moved back into the enclosed structure located in the enclosed space, the motor is driven in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The enclosed space is a vehicle, and the enclosed structure is a rooftop console.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: The presence of occupants in the vehicle is determined before the temperature is sensed.

17. A method for controlling the ultraviolet disinfection device according to claim 1, the method comprising: Receive disinfection requests from an interface configured to communicate with the ultraviolet disinfection device; as well as The drive unit is activated based on the received disinfection request. The disinfection unit is moved a predetermined distance according to the received disinfection request.

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